The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
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